Plant profile: Magic flower

• Growth habit: A sprawling deciduous perennial forming plants to 18 inches tall and twice as wide. The leaves are ovate in shape, medium to dark green with a toothed edge growing to 3 inches long and half as wide.

• Light: Tolerates shade but grows and flowers best in filter sun.

• Water needs: Prefers a moist soil when making growth. May need daily waterings as large plants in containers. Allow soil to dry when plants go dormant for winter.

Feedings: Apply an all purpose liquid fertilizer every other week during periods of growth. Or use a slow release fertilizer when the plants begin growth in the spring and repeat around mid summer.

• Propagation: Start new plantings by dividing the rhizomes of established plants before growth in spring. • Hardiness: Tender; plants are normally dormant and rhizomes can survive in the ground. Store planted but dormant containers where they won't freeze.

• Major problems: Chewing insects may feed on the foliage but seldom need control. Provide good drainage to prevent root rot.

• Pruning: Groom as needed to keep plantings in bounds but give adequate room to grow. Remove declining portions in the fall as plants enter a dormant phase.

• Uses: A somewhat unknown bulb especially attractive in hanging baskets for summer color. Varieties are available with white, red, pink, blue or purple flowers that open May through October.